Parramatta, Jamil's father, John, and his management last night refused to speculate on whether the Eels' decision to dump the 18-year-old lock would jeopardise Will's commitment to the club from 2014.

Fairfax Media was told Jamil Hopoate wanted to leave his digs to join friends in the city, but was asked by up to five officials to remain at the pre-season camp.

''While the club regrets losing such a talented player, the club has made it very clear that we expect high standards of behaviour across all grades. All who play for the Parramatta Eels need to understand that we are focused on and committed to recruiting players who put the team first.''

In November, Hopoate had his provisional driver's licence suspended for six months and was fined $500 for drink driving. The player, who returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.127, admitted to drinking 12 330ml bottles of Corona beer over three hours before he was stopped by police in Narraweena.

His Toyota Cup coach, Steve Speechley, said he was shocked by the news out of the rook camp and was adamant Hopoate's behaviour was out of character. ''He was a pleasure to coach,'' Speechley said. ''I never had any problems with him. It's such a shame because he's a kid with enormous potential.''